Los Angeles wildfires update: Jan. 24

Firefighters are working to contain the Hughes Fire, a fast-moving wildfire near Castaic Lake that broke out Wednesday morning. The fire has burned nearly 16 square miles of trees and brush, forcing more than 50,000 people into evacuation orders or warnings.

As of Thursday night, the fire was 36% contained. Favorable wind conditions allowed aircraft to drop fire retardant, helping crews slow the fire’s spread. However, gusts reaching 42 mph remain a concern for the more than 4,000 firefighters battling the blaze.

Over 31,000 people have been ordered to evacuate, and another 23,000 are under warnings. Parts of Interstate 5 were closed temporarily but reopened Wednesday evening. Ventura County lifted evacuation orders near Lake Piru on Thursday morning, though red flag warnings remain in effect for the region through Friday.

Residents like nurse Kayla Amara are feeling the strain as the fire nears their homes. Amara was helping a friend evacuate in the Stonegate neighborhood when the fire grew rapidly.

Further south, in Pacific Palisades and Altadena, some residents are returning home after major fires burned through those areas. However, officials report that 22 people remain missing.

The Hughes Fire isn’t the only wildfire Southern California is dealing with. Two new fires broke out Thursday in San Diego County. The Gilman Fire, near UC San Diego, was quickly contained after burning two acres, but the Otay Mountains Fire grew to 300 acres by Thursday evening.

In Los Angeles, crews contained the Sepulveda Fire near Interstate 405 after it burned 45 acres late Wednesday.

Rain is forecasted to begin Saturday, potentially offering relief for firefighters and residents. However, officials remain cautious, as heavy rains could lead to mudslides in areas left bare by the fires.

The fight to contain the Hughes Fire continues, with crews working to protect homes and prevent the fire from spreading further. Residents remain on edge as red flag conditions persist.

Annelise Hanson is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, email amh8563@psu.edu.